Italy

Italy – the most detailed information about the country with a photo. Sights, cities of Italy, climate, geography, population and culture.

Italy (Repubblica Italiana)

Italy is a state in southern Europe in the center of the Mediterranean, located mostly on the peninsula. A country also occupies a small (northwestern) part of the Balkan Peninsula, Padanskaya Plain, Southern Alps and a number of large and small islands of the Mediterranean, including Sicily and Sardinia. Italy in the north-west borders with France, in the north – with Switzerland and Austria, in the northeast – with Slovenia. State also has internal borders with the Vatican and San Marino. it a country with the greatest cultural, historical and artistic the heritage of the cradle of one of the greatest empires in history humanity and the Renaissance.

Italy is one of the most unique and charming places in the world. the world. It has some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Europe, the world’s largest treasure trove of history, culture and art, favorable warm climate and delicious authentic cuisine. In this case, Italy is not perfect. Its historical cities and antiquities suffer from modern development, infrastructure working at its peak, there are problems in the economy and social sphere. But, having been here, you will definitely love this country for its exuberant temperament, reckless temper, delicious cuisine and special the atmosphere.

1. Useful information
2. Geography and nature
3. Climate
4. Best time to visit
5. Story
6. Administrative division
7. Population
8. Transport
9. Cities of Italy
10. sights
11. Accommodation
12. Kitchen

Flag of italy

Useful information about Italy

1. The population is 60.8 million people (according to this indicator Italy takes the 23rd place in the world).
2. The area is 301,340 square kilometers.
3. The language is Italian.
4. Currency – Euro.
5. Visa – Schengen.
6. Time – Central European UTC +1, in summer +2.
7. VAT (Tax Free) can be returned from the purchase of 154.94 euros.
8. The voltage of the electrical network is 220 V, 50 Hz. Warning: Italy uses its own electric connector, so some devices may require adapter. It can be bought at any supermarket.
9. Italy is a fairly safe country. Main stick basic safety rules and beware of scammers in popular tourist places.
10. Italy is a unitary republic of a parliamentary type. The head of state is the president. Executive power – Parliament headed by the Chairman of the Council ministers.

Geography and nature

Italy is located in southern Europe in the Mediterranean. Large part of the country lies on the Apennine peninsula. Territory in mostly hilly and mountainous. From the north, Italy is propped up by the South Alps, and the Apennines Mountains are located on the peninsula. Territory the country is at the point of contact of the lithospheric plates, so there’s no earthquakes are rare. In addition, there are several major volcanoes: Etna, Vesuvius, etc.

Italian Alps

Italy is a huge coastline. The country is washed the following seas of the Mediterranean: Adriatic and Ionian in the east, Tyrrhenian and Ligurian in the west. The largest river is the Po River. Large Lakes – Garda, Como.

Lake Garda

Due to geographical and climatic features it is very the nature of Italy is diverse. Although most of the territory is changed human activity back in antiquity. In the north, on the slopes of the Alps, mixed and coniferous forests grow, on the coast and south – subtropical plants. The central part of the country is a mixture nature of subtropics and temperate latitudes.

Climate

The climate of Italy is very diverse and may in some regions. very different from the Mediterranean. On the most part Territory summer is very warm and dry, and July is the hottest month. Autumn is usually rainy. Winters are cool and wet. fogs) in the north and softer in the south. In the provinces that located in the foothills of the Alps, the climate is mountainous. Summer is cool as well Winter is cold and snowy.

Winter in Venice

Best time to visit

Italy has a favorable warm climate. Although in the Alps and the foothills can be quite cold. To choose the best time To visit, you need to weigh a few factors: the prices of hotels and food, weather, cultural events and seasonal atmosphere. Most high season is summer. If you want to come to Italy to explore its remarkable cultural and historical heritage then it is better to choose the lowest season – winter. The most optimal time with in terms of weather and the number of tourists – April-May and September October.

Colosseum in the snow – rare sight

Story

The history of Italy is very rich and diverse. Country for the period of its existence, knew ups and downs, was fragmented and merged. On its territory in ancient times, a great empire arose – Roman. And Italy can be called the cradle of the West. civilization.

The territory of modern Italy has been inhabited for more than 50 thousand years. backwards The name of the country comes from the tribe of the Italians, who in 5 century BC settled a small part of the region of Emilia-Romagna. Already in the 3rd century, Italy meant the whole peninsula to the Rubicon River, and in the 2nd century – the territory to the slopes of the Alps. In the pre-Roman period here Ligurian, Etruscan, Umber and even Gauls lived there.

Verona

In 753 BC, Rome was founded on the Tiber River. The romans gradually began to spread its influence throughout the Apennine peninsula. Initially, Rome was ruled by 7 kings. In the year 509 of the kings changed the republic. In the republican period began active military expansion into other tribes. By the 3rd century BC, Rome conquered much of modern Italy.

In 390, the Gauls defeated the Roman army, captured and burned Rome.

The growth of the power of Rome and the spread of its influence in The Mediterranean led to a clash with Carthage. As a result the three Punic Wars Carthage was destroyed, and its territory entered in the republic. In the 1st century, the republic was shaken by internal conflicts. At first there was a rebellion of slaves led by Spartacus. A civil war broke out later, in which victory won by Julius Caesar. He established the dictatorship and laid the foundations for creating an empire.

Ruins of Rome Forum

After the murder of Julius Caesar, power passed to Octavian Augustus, who is considered the founder of the Roman Empire. After the death of the first Roman emperor’s power passed to Tiberius, who became the first from the Julien-Claudian dynasty. Dynasty Klavdiev ended in the middle of the 1st century AD with the murder of Nero. Next to the end of the 1st century Rome rules the Flavian dynasty, which was replaced by the first dynasty Antoninov, and later Severov. During this period, the Roman Empire reached the peak of his power and development, owning almost the whole of Southern Europe, a huge part of Western Europe and North Africa.

Tiber River (Rome)

In the 4th century began the fall of Rome. In 330 the emperor Constantine founded Constantinople and moved his capital there. At the end of the 4th century formed Western and Eastern Roman Empire. In the 5th century in Italy was invaded by Vandals and Visigoths. Rome was taken and plundered as well mighty ancient empire fell. Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium) lasted for almost a thousand years after that and fell only at 15 century.

In the 5th century Italy was captured by the Ostrogoths. In the 6th century in the north arose Kingdom of the Lombards. In the 8-11 century Italy was part of the empire. francs. Its southern part was captured by the Normans during this period. AT 11-13 centuries the empire of the Franks was destroyed. Power focused in the “hands” of the popes. There was a Sicilian kingdom and several free states in northern Italy.

Naples

In the 13-15 centuries, the power of the Popes has decreased significantly. In the territory Italy, there were many states: the kingdom of Naples, Papal region, the Republics of Venice and Genoa, Savoie, Milan. At the end of it period began the Renaissance, the cradle of which was Florence.

At the end of the 15th – first half of the 16th century, several Italian wars. The first Italian war arose because of France claims to the north of the country. French troops occupied Tuscany, Rome and moved to Naples. But they were stopped by the union. Venice, Milan and Emperor Maximilian. During the second the Italian war, France captured Genoa and Milan, and Spain – Naples. As a result of the third war, the Spaniards defeated the French, who were forced to abandon claims to Italy. In the 16th century most of its territory was under Spanish influence.

Florence – the cradle of the Renaissance

In the early 18th century, after the war for the Spanish inheritance, Italy became part of the empire of the Austrian Habsburgs. At the end of the 18th century here entered the French troops. At this time, several were formed republics, which later merged into the Italian Republic, in 1805 transformed into the kingdom. During this period arises movement for freedom and independence – Risordzhimento. By 1860 begins the unification of the country around the Sardinian kingdom. AT In 1870, the Italian kingdom entered Rome, which became its capital.

At the beginning of World War I, Italy declared its neutrality. But in 1915 she joined the Entente. In 1919 here a fascist movement arises. In 1922, the fascists, led by Mussolini came to power. In 1940, Italy entered the Second World War on the side of Germany. In 1943 – capitulated. In 1945 the Mussolini regime was overthrown. In 1947 the year the Constitution was adopted and the country became a parliamentary republic.

Administrative division

Administratively Italy is divided into 20 regions: Valle d’Aosta, Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Julia, Piedmont, Liguria, Venice, Tuscany, Umbria, Emilia-Romagna, Marche, Abruzzo, Lazio, Molise, Basilicata, Campania, Calabria, Apulia, Sardinia and Sicily. The capital of the country is Rome. Areas in turn divided into provinces, of which there are 110.

Administrative division of Italy

Also conditionally Italy can be divided into regions:

• Northwest Italy (Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, Valle d’Aosta) – the richest and most developed region of the country. Here The country’s largest port, Genoa, is the main financial and business center – Milan, center of industry and technology – Turin.
• Northeastern Italy (Emilia-Romagna, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto) is a diverse region with beautiful Venice and one of the main student cities – Bologna, charming Parma and romantic Verona. Here you can find almost everything: from the ski resorts and natural beauty of the South Tyrol to the coast and beaches.
• Central Italy (Lazio, Marche, Tuscany, Abruzzo and Umbria) – breathes history, culture and art. Here are the most The main attractions of the country and the most famous artistic masterpieces. Cities do not need to be introduced here: eternal city – the legendary Rome, the cradle of the Renaissance and modern Italian – Florence, ancient Pisa, Lucca and siena.
• Southern Italy (Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania and Molise) – southern region with an incredible temperament: stormy Naples, the dramatic ruins of Pompeii, the romantic Amalfi Coast and Capri.
• The islands of Sicily and Sardinia – beautiful sea and beaches. Here located the most famous resorts of Italy.

Tuscany

Population

In terms of population, Italy ranks fourth in European Union. Over 90% of the population is Italians. Large diasporas: Romanians, people from North Africa, Albanians. Official language – Italian. German is also spoken in Bolzano and South Tyrol. Trieste – in Slovene, in Aosta – in French.

The Italians themselves are open, friendly, very temperamental and emotional. Although there are features between the North and the South. So on northern Italy people are more closed, punctual and pragmatic, whereas in the South it is quite the opposite.

Italians are very traditional, proud of their country and cuisine. They love their region, have fun and well to eat

Transport

Major international airports:

• Rome – with two airports: Fiumicino (FCO – Leonardo da Vinci) and Ciampino for low cost airlines.
• Milan – with two airports: Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN). In addition, there is an airport in Bergamo (BGY – Orio al Serkio).
• Bologna (BLQ – Guglielmo Marconi).
• Naples (NAP – Capodichino).
• Pisa (PSA – Galileo Galilei).
• Venice (VCE – Marco Polo).
• Treviso (TSF – Antonio Canova).
• Turin (TRN – Sandro Pertini).
• Palermo (PMO – Punta Raisi).
• Catania (CTA – Vincenzo Bellini).
• Bari (BRI – Palese).
• Genoa (GOA – Cristoforo Colombo).

Italian town by the sea

A rail link connects Italy with Germany (through Munich), Austria (Vienna, Innsbruck, Villach), France (Paris, Lyon, Nice), Switzerland (Basel, Geneva), Spain (via Barcelona). High-speed trains run to the largest cities of Italy: Rome, Turin, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Naples.

We should also note the motorways that permeate the entire country. These roads are simply of excellent quality and not at all differ from the famous German autobahns, except that are paid. On arrival at the motorway you need to take special ticket. On departure, you must give this ticket to the cashier or insert it into a special machine. Cash accepted and bank cards. Payment methods are indicated on special signs.

Cities of Italy

In Italy, hundreds of popular cities worth visiting. Nearly each city boasts interesting sights and rich history. But there are places that you must see. Our Top 10 cities in Italy:

1. Rome is the capital of Italy and one of its oldest cities. A place, where the story literally froze on the streets, and the sights long ago became symbols of the whole country.
2. Venice is one of the most romantic cities in the world. Unique place with canals, bridges, gondolas and a wonderful architecture.
3. Florence – the cradle of the Renaissance, the city where Leonardo was born da Vinci, Dante, Michelangelo and dozens of other geniuses. Capital of Tuscany Impress you with museums and art collections.
4. Milan is one of the capitals of world fashion. Modern metropolis, financial and business center of the country. If you are interested in shopping – you exactly here.
5. Naples is the capital of the Italian south. The ancient city of the south temperament and the birthplace of pizza.
6. Verona is one of the most romantic cities in Italy, in which you can touch the story and feel like heroes Shakespeare.
7. Bologna – the gastronomic capital of the country, the city of youth, culture and art.
8. Pisa is one of the most popular cities in Tuscany with the famous leaning tower.
9. Turin – the first capital of United Italy, a city industry and technology.
10. Genoa is the largest Italian port, a city with a rich history and many attractions.

Venice

Other interesting places:

• Lake Garda and Como, as well as the pearl of the Dolomites Alps – Braies
• Italian Alps and South Tyrol – beautiful nature and awesome mountains.
• Amalfi – rocky coast with beautiful towns.
• Cinque Terre – charming seaside coastal towns Liguria.
• Pompeii and Herculaneum – the ruins of ancient cities destroyed during the eruption of Vesuvius.
• Sardinia – stunning beaches and seascapes.

Lake Braies

sights

Italy has as many attractions as it has one country in the world. On its territory there are 53 World UNESCO heritage. Only listing the main attractions will take several pages. Therefore, only landmarks symbols.

Tourist map

The Colosseum is a grand antique amphitheater and probably the most famous landmark of Italy. Located in Rome. He was built in just 8 years. Construction began the emperor Vespasian, and finished tit.

Coliseum

The Colosseum is made in the form of a giant ellipse. This is the biggest the amphitheater of antiquity, striking in its size – the outer axis in length is 524 meters, the size of the site is 85 x 53 meters, and the height is from 48 to 50 meters. This is one of the most striking and huge structures. Ancient Rome.

Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the greatest domed structures in the world. Was built between the ages of 25-27 AD Consul Marc Vipsanius Agrippa and rebuilt in 126 after the fire during the reign Adriana The Pantheon translates as “the temple of all gods.” This is one of the most well-preserved ancient buildings of Rome.

Roman forum

The Roman Forum is the heart of the Roman Empire, the main political and community center of ancient Rome. Represents a rectangular square, which is surrounded by the remains of ancient buildings and temples. Roman The forum is located in the valley between the Capitoline and the Palatine hills. in the center of the capital of Italy.

Vatican

The Vatican – the heart of the Catholic world, a mini-state in the center Of rome Here is the largest Christian church in the world. BUT Vatican museums exhibit the great treasures of art.

Leaning Tower

Leaning Tower of Pisa – the famous leaning tower, the main symbol Pisa It was conceived as the bell tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Built for almost two centuries from the 12th century. Tower height more than 50 meters, and the deviation from the axis is at least four%.

Santa Maria del Fiore

Santa Maria del Fiore is the main attraction and one of the most recognizable symbols of florence. Beautiful and impressive the cathedral with pink, white and green marble is made in gothic style and located in the historic center on piazza Duomo. Santa Maria del Fiore is built on the place where once stood the ancient cathedral of the capital of Tuscany – Santa Reparata, the remains which are visible in the crypt.

Milan Cathedral

Duomo or the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nacente – a symbol of Milan, located in the heart of the city on the eponymous square. Is an one of the largest religious buildings in the world (accommodates about 40,000 people) and probably the most beautiful church in style gothic Duomo built over 4 centuries from the 14th century. Its roof crowned with 135 spiers, and the facade is decorated with 2,245 marble statues.

Amalfi

Amalfi – a stunning stretch of coast south of Naples with picturesque towns that climb steep the rocks.

Venice

Venice – a city of amazing beauty, which itself is a landmark. More than 20 million tourists come here to look at the charming channels, graceful architecture and bridges, ride on gondolas, take a walk San Marco, see the Rialto Bridge, buy glassware at island of Murano and take pictures of the colorful houses of Burano. The historic center of Venice is built on 118 islands of the Venetian lagoons.

Pompeii

Pompeii – the legendary ancient city destroyed during the devastating eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD at the peak its power. Despite the lava flows and tons of ash that buried the city and its inhabitants, it was preserved in a fantastic condition.

Accommodation

In major cities and popular tourist areas you can find Many accommodation options: from world class hotels to family hotels and apartments. One caveat – in Italy is not enough hostels. In Tuscany, Piedmont, Umbria, Abruzzo, Sardinia, Puglia and Emilia-Romagna is increasingly popular agritourism. In Italy you can find many charming hotels with two stars and less.

The cost of living depends on the popularity of the region, location and of the season. The highest hotel prices are from May to August. Lowest – in the winter. In general, the prices of hotels and apartments, compared with the rest of Europe, in Italy is not the highest. Most money on accommodation will be required in Milan, Venice, the surroundings of the lakes Garda and Como. Although there you can find interesting and cheap options.

Trastevere – charming area in rome

Kitchen

Italian cuisine is perhaps the most delicious and varied in Europe. When this cuisine remains purely regional. Believe the kitchen Italy is not only pasta and pizza. These are a huge amount dishes and ingredients that can satisfy any gourmet.

Italian pizza

Traditional Italian dishes and products:

• Pizza is one of the most popular Italian dishes, which has spread widely around the world. Each region has its own traditions of its preparation. How to cook pizza in Italy – so not cook it nowhere.
• Risotto – rice with meat, vegetables and seafood.
• Polenta – corn grits with meat.
• Pasta (spaghetti, pasta) with sauces and meat
• Lasagna.
• Tortellini – Italian dumplings with cheese and meat
• Gelato – ice cream.
• Panini – sandwiches.
• Cheese. Some types of cheese can be produced only in specific region. In Italy, produce more than 800 types of cheese.
• Wine.
• Olive oil.
• Sausage and ham – more than 400 species.

Wine map

The main drink in Italy is wine. Grapes are grown in almost every province, except the highlands. In each The region has strong winemaking traditions.

Video

Italy on the map